The Ambulatory Surgery Center Association highlighted recent legislative work and upcoming opportunities ASCs have to secure local, state and federal support in a Surgical Information Systems article.
Here are three insights:
1. ASCA Policy Analyst Alex Taira said ASCA is working with HHS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology on the use of EHRs in the ASC space, and on ASC value-based payment model participation.
Mr. Taira said, "ONC staff have recognized ASCs as an important specialty care setting and have committed a staff team to further work on ASC-specific technical EHR specifications."
2. President Donald Trump signed the VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act of 2018 in June. ASCA Assistant Director of Government Affairs and Legislative Affairs Jeff Evans said the law will create a more reliable claims reimbursement process, while bringing all non-VA provider programs into the Veterans Community Care Program.
Mr. Evans said the bill will make it easy for veterans to receive care.
3. Finally, ASCA Assistant Director of Grassroots and Political Affairs Danielle Kaster shared information about National Advocacy Day, Sept. 5, saying ASCA will provide a briefing the day before the event to ensure ASC community members are prepared to speak to legislators.